Discover Iceland’s legendary Golden Circle on our self-drive road trip. This detailed guide covers Thingvellir’s historic grounds, Geysir’s steamy displays, Gullfoss’ thundering cascades plus hidden gems that many tourists miss. Enjoy this self-drive adventure through one of earth’s most dramatic landscapes.
Table of Contents
Golden Circle Itinerary
Our road trip itinerary covers the must-visits of the Golden Circle and adds less visited but equally beautiful, natural wonders.
- Drive to the hidden gem of Þórufoss Waterfall.
- Discover the oldest parliament grounds at historic Thingvellir National Park.
- Walk between two continents in Thingvellir’s Almannagjá Gorge.
- Follow scenic trails leading to majestic Öxarárfoss Waterfall.
- Photograph the spectacular eruptions of the Strokkur Geyser and walk among hot springs at the Geysir Geothermal Area.
- Marvel at the double cascades of magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Admire the striking rock layers of the walls of Brúarhlöð Canyon.
- Relax in the geothermal waters of Flúðir’s Secret Lagoon, Iceland’s oldest swimming pool.
- Discover centuries of religious heritage at historic Skálholt.
- End your road trip in the town of Hveragerði and discover the local geothermal attractions.
Golden Circle Route Map
Use our detailed Golden Circle map to discover all the must-see attractions and hidden gems along this 300-kilometre, scenic, driving route.
Driving the Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular driving route, and for good reason. This roughly 300-kilometre loop makes for a perfect day trip from Reykjavík. The route features three iconic natural wonders along with several other spectacular waterfalls, geysers, and historic sites. The area is notable for its rich geothermal activity.
The three main attractions of the Golden Circle are:
- Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
- Geysir Geothermal Area – home to active geysers, and
- Gullfoss – one of Iceland’s most magnificent waterfalls.
Let’s get started! From Reykjavík, take Highway #1 north to Route 36 and drive east. While most tourists drive directly to Thingvellir, we begin our adventure with a hidden gem on Route 48, a beautiful cascade.
Þórufoss Waterfall
This cascade waterfall drops 18 metres into the Laxá í Kjós river. At approximately 30 metres wide, it is an impressive sight. Short, easy trails lead to viewpoints above and below the waterfall (about 0.8 kilometres round-trip).
You might recognize this from the HBO series Game of Thrones, where it served as a location for a dramatic scene with one of Daenerys Targaryen’s dragons.
Return to Route 36 and continue east to the first major must-see stop on the Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park.
Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park
Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical, cultural, and geological significance. It was protected as Iceland’s first national park in 1930.
This was the site of the first general assembly of Viking chieftains from across Iceland in 930 CE, leading to the name “þingvellir” which means “assembly plains”. It was the perfect place for a large gathering. It’s relatively flat, had lots of firewood and drinking water nearby and was accessible from the main cross-country routes.
These open-air general assemblies, called the Alþing, were held here annually until 1798. The Alþing functioned much like a modern parliament. Laws were set and disputes settled, making Þingvellir the birthplace of the Icelandic parliament, one of the first parliaments in the world.
Þingvellir sits in a roughly 5-kilometre wide rift valley, part of the Mid-Atlantic Rift. Its sides are the steep walls of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The valley floor has a number of long, narrow, north-south fissures. These openings are made by the cracking or splitting of the land as the tectonic plates move apart at about 2.5 centimetres per year. Þingvellir is one of the few places in the world where you can walk between two continents.
The perfect place to start your visit to Þingvellir is the Visitor Centre. The nearby parking lot (P1) is the main parking area. While there is no per person entry fee to Þingvellir, there is a fee to park.
The Visitor Centre’s exhibits explain both Thingvellir’s historical significance and the geological forces at work in the region. Helpful staff are around if you have questions. There are also signs throughout the park detailing historical or geological information.
Just outside the visitor centre, the Þingvallavatn Lake Overlook provides one of the best views of Iceland’s largest lake and the surrounding landscape of Þingvellir National Park.
Þingvallavatn Lake
The huge lake stretches across 84 square kilometres of the rift valley, occupying one of its largest fissures. The lake’s source waters are nutrient-rich having collected minerals from the area’s volcanic rocks. This has led to a biodiverse, crystal-clear, lakewater ecosystem.
For a unique underwater experience, snorkel or dive in the clear waters of the Silfra Fissure, at the north end of the lake.
From the overlook, follow the walkway to the north and down into the rift valley.
Almannagjá Gorge
This is another fissure in the rift valley. The steep cliff on its western side is the edge of the North American tectonic plate. The Almannagjá Gorge stretches about 8 kilometres through Þingvellir National Park. The walls and pathways of the gorge were filming locations for HBO’s Game of Thrones series.
The volcanic rock formation, located below the flagpole, served as the Lögberg or Law Rock during the annual Alþing beginning in 930 CE. People gathered below this high point to hear the Law Speaker proclaim laws, settle disputes and oversee the general proceedings.
The precise location of the ancient Law Rock remains uncertain due to changes in the landscape over the centuries. Today’s location is considered a good approximation and continues to be used for large national events and celebrations. The declaration of the founding of the Icelandic republic (1944) and millennial anniversaries of Settlement, the first Alþing and adoption of Christianity were all held here.
Just north of Law Rock, where the path crosses the Öxará river, there is a small deep pool called Drekkingarhylur, or the Drowning Pool. A number of women accused of crimes, like adultery, were drowned here during the 16th and 17th centuries.
We retraced our steps, walking into the gorge, taking the path to the south of Law Rock. At the place called Snorri’s Booth, near the river, archaeologists found overgrown traces of about 50 ancient shelters built from turf and stone. Called booths, they were used by attendees during the two-week summer Alþing. The booths appear to have been built on top of older ones and are mainly from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Continue across the river toward to the church.
Þingvellir Church and Cemeteries
The wooden Þingvellir Church was built in 1859, continuing centuries of Christian worship in the area in structures dating back to around 1015. The church’s late 17th-century pulpit and the early 19th-century altarpiece decorate the simple interior.
The tower was added in 1907 and houses three bells, one very old of an unknown age, another given to the church at the end of the 17th century and the third is known as Iceland’s Bell from 1944 when Iceland became a republic.
To the east of the church is a raised circular structure. This is the Iceland National Cemetery, created in 1940. Only two people are buried here: Jónas Hallgrímsson and Einar Benediktsson. Both are national poets and played key roles in promoting Iceland’s independence movement. The small parish cemetery, on the church’s west side, contains the graves of local residents.
We walked from the parish cemetery back to our car and drove further down the main road to parking lot 3 to get closer to the waterfall.
Langistígur (Dead Man Walk)
A path from the parking lot connects to the Almannagjá gorge. Rough steps lead down to Dead Man Walk, the primary access route to Öxarárfoss waterfall, which is about 600 metres away. Along the walk, see volcanic rocks and jagged cracks, evidence of the area’s unique geology.
The trail is called Langistígur, Dead Man Walk or the Execution Trail. It is believed that this trail was walked by many people sentenced to execution during the 17th century, a time of harsh, sometimes unjust, judicial practices in many countries. Different forms of capital punishment were carried out at several nearby sites. There were drownings (Drekkingarhylur), beheadings (Höggstokkseyri), hangings (Stekkjargja), and people were burned at the stake (Brennugjá).
Öxarárfoss Waterfall
The Öxarárfoss is a spectacular, 13-metre-high cascade on the Öxará River. The river was deliberately diverted into the Almannagjá gorge to provide water for the Alþingi assembly.
During winter months, Öxarárfoss can freeze over completely. The resulting ice formations attract photographers and ice climbers.
Return to the parking lot and continue on Route 36 to a viewpoint on the east side of the rift valley.
Hrafnagjá Viewpoint
The Hrafnagjá viewpoint is a worthwhile stop along the Golden Circle route. Enjoy unobstructed views of Þingvallavatn Lake and the historic assembly plains with mountains in the distance. There is parking just off the road.
Hrafnagjá gorge measures about 7.7 metres long and 68 metres at its widest. The east wall of the gorge is the edge of the Eurasian tectonic plate.
About 7 kilometres south, the Golden Circle route continues left onto Route 365. After 14 kilometres, take Route 37 north to the small village of Laugarvatn. This charming village is the perfect spot for a quick lunch.
Laugarvatn
The small, shallow, namesake lake is heated by geothermal springs, making it suitable for bathing year-round. Laugarvatn, which literally means “bathing pools”, has been used for bathing, relaxation and wellness for centuries. The village has a number of accommodation options, including guesthouses and hotels, catering to travellers exploring the Golden Circle.
Laugarvatn Fontana, an alternative to Iceland’s larger, more famous geothermal spas, features a series of outdoor mineral pools, steam rooms, and a Finnish-style sauna. Walk into the cool lake or onto the warm, black sand beach. Discover their geothermal bakery and sample fresh, traditional, rye bread baked under the hot sand.
About 20 minutes east, Brúarfoss Waterfall is a hidden gem. Its distinctive blue waters are glacial meltwater from the Langjökull glacier. The water drops only 2 to 3 metres, but the waterfall’s unique U-shape base creates interesting rapids. The name “Brúarfoss”, meaning “Bridge Falls”, refers to an ancient, stone bridge that once spanned the river.
There are two access options:
- Quick Route: Park in the dedicated lot, 3 kilometres north of Route 37. From here, it’s an easy 250-metre walk to the falls. There is a charge to park here.
- Scenic Route: Start from the trailhead parking on Route 37 for a longer but rewarding 7-km, round-trip hike. This trail passes several other pretty waterfalls along the way.
Continue to follow Route 37 until it ends at Route 35. Turn left (north) to reach the famous Geysir Geothermal Area in the Haukadalur Valley, a must-see on the Golden Circle. Look for parking on the south side of the road, next to the Geysir Centre, which has a number of food options. There is a fee to park but not to enter the geothermal area.
Geysir Geothermal Area
This is one of Iceland’s most concentrated displays of geothermal phenomena. See the famous Strokkur geyser, the original Geysir (which lends its name to all other geysers worldwide), and more than 40 other smaller hot springs, mud pots and fumaroles nearby. The entire Geysir area is considered a high-temperature geothermal field and evidence of the volcanic forces beneath Iceland’s surface.
Well-maintained boardwalks and paths protect both the delicate geothermal features and visitors. There are signs explaining the geothermal processes at work beneath your feet, including the fact that the area has been active geothermally for approximately 10,000 years. Remember to stay on designated paths, as the ground can be unstable and the water is extremely hot (between 80 and 100°C).
Strokkur Geyser
Strokkur is the star attraction of the geothermal area. Every 6 to 10 minutes, this geyser ejects water in a vertical jet 15 to 20 metres high. It’s a spectacular display.
First documented in 1789, this geyser’s activity has fluctuated over the years, due to blockages caused by natural geological changes. In 1963 blockages were cleared, bringing back the geyser’s spectacular display we continue to enjoy today.
Walk the Trail of Geysers
The trail starts at Litli-Geysir (Little Geyser), which is near the road. This is a small, essentially inactive, geyser. Historically Litli-Geysir has been active during periods of earthquake activity. These activity cycles are considered normal fluctuations for a geothermal field.
Follow the trail to Strokkur which sits more or less in the middle of the field. Wait to get your picture of Strokkur’s next eruption.
Walk to the famous Geysir in the heart of the geothermal area. While Geysir now lies mostly dormant, its historical eruptions were truly spectacular, reaching heights of up to 170 metres. It occasionally awakens after earthquakes, as it did in 2000. Today it is an impressive 18-metre-wide pool of steaming, mineral-rich water.
Blesi is a small hot spring known for its beautiful blue colour, due to the pool’s silica deposits and mineral-rich waters.
Konungshver is one of the northernmost geothermal features in the field, located slightly northwest and uphill from Blesi. Named in honour of King Christian IX’s visit in 1874, the King’s Hot Spring continues to bubble and is evidence of the longevity of the field.
Stop at the Windrose Viewpoint for a panoramic view of the full extent of the geysers, mudpots, hot springs and the surrounding landscape. Some people continue up the hill for a different view. We felt this great viewpoint was the perfect end to the trail.
Continue east on Route 35 to one of Iceland’s most famous, iconic waterfalls.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss is located on the Hvítá river, which is fed by Iceland’s second biggest glacier, the Langjökull. The water of the powerful two-tiered cascade drops a total of 32 metres. The river flows over a series of rock levels dropping 11 metres then turns sharply and plummets another 21 metres into the deep, narrow canyon below. The spray often creates shimmering rainbows above the falls. Its summer flow rate (140 cubic metres per second) is almost cut in half in the winter.
The modern Gulfoss Visitor Centre, just off the eastside parking lot, houses exhibits about the waterfall’s geology and history. There are also amenities including a restaurant, a gift shop, and public toilets.
Well-maintained paths offer multiple perspectives of this natural wonder. A paved path leads from the Visitor Centre to the viewpoints.
For an up-close and personal view of the waterfall’s raw power, walk down to the Gullfoss Lower Lookout. Feel the mist on your face and the ground vibrating slightly from the force of the water as it crashes into the gorge. A gravel path leads all the way to the rocks of the upper falls.
At the foot of the steps (on the path to the lower lookout) there is a memorial to Sigríður Tómasdóttir, whose passionate campaign saved Gullfoss from development for hydroelectric power in the early 20th century.
After visiting the lower area, we took the trail along the top of the valley to the Gullfoss Upper Lookout to see the full waterfall, the river, the gorge and the surrounding landscape. This spot is particularly popular for photography, when summer’s evening sun illuminates the valley.
Turn around and drive back to the intersection of Route 30. Turn south on Route 30, cross the Brúarhlöð Bridge and park just up the hill to the right. This is a spot often overlooked but worth at least a quick stop.
Brúarhlöð Canyon
Over thousands of years, the powerful Hvítá river, which also flows over Gullfoss, has carved this stunning canyon. At Brúarhlöð, Hvítá’s milky blue-grey colour contrasts beautifully against the towering walls of layered, volcanic breccia. Each layer represents a different volcanic episode and is made of broken bits of minerals or rocks cemented together.
Continue south to the village of Flúðir, in the heart of south Iceland’s agricultural belt.
Flúðir
This farming community is a centre for both horticulture and wellness tourism due to the abundance of geothermal energy. Area greenhouses use geothermal heat to help grow fruits and vegetables year-round. The village is home to one of Iceland’s largest mushroom production companies. Flúðir sits between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, on one of Iceland’s most active earthquake zones.
Flúðir’s Secret Lagoon was established in 1891, in the Hverahólmi geothermal area. The lagoon, Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, is continuously fed by natural hot springs. It remains at a comfortable temperature of 38-40°C year-round. This is a great spot for relaxing anytime and for viewing the Northern Lights during the colder months.
About 4.5 kilometres east of Road 30, south of Flúðir, the Hrunalaug Hot Spring is set in lush green, rolling hills. Depending on water levels, it features three pools of mineral-rich water of varying temperatures (32-40°C). The site has been owned by the same family since at least 1890. It maintains its historic charm with simple stone walls and a small changing shed. This natural hot spring is a peaceful alternative to more modern thermal baths.
From Flúðir take Route 359 and drive west to Route 35. Turn right and drive about 6 kilometres north to a picturesque waterfall located on the Tungufljót River.
The impressive Faxafoss Waterfall is 80 metres wide and drops 7 metres over stepped rocks. A fish ladder, beside the main waterfall, allows salmon to navigate upstream during spawning season. While smaller than its famous neighbour, Gullfoss, the waterfall’s accessibility and lack of crowds make it a worthwhile stop.
Drive south, back down Route 35 to an incredible agricultural success story.
Friðheimar Tomato Farm
In 2002, the family-run operation began cultivating tomatoes. Over 20 years, they built the farm into a huge, state-of-the-art operation producing a number of varieties of tomatoes in an environmentally friendly way. Over 1 ton of tomatoes are harvested daily.
Using pure local water, geothermal “green” energy and biological pest control, Friðheimar grows tasty, healthy vegetables in their 5,000-square-metre greenhouse complex. The tomatoes grow year-round under artificial lighting, conquering the long dark Icelandic winters. Greenhouse tours are offered (pre-booking required) to see the cultivation process.
Their restaurant serves lunch (with a reservation) among the tomato plants. Every dish on the menu highlights tomatoes. Try classic tomato soup or treats like tomato ice cream, tomato beer and more. Purchase food souvenirs made from tomatoes and cucumbers in the shop.
The family also raises Icelandic horses, known for their unique gaits. Visit the stable (pre-booking required) to learn about the breed and enjoy a demonstration of all five gaits. Horse shows are held throughout the year.
Enjoy a glass of wine or a light meal in the Friðheimar Winebar, located in one of the oldest greenhouses. There is no need to book the winebar in advance but don’t forget to pre-book your other Friðheimar Tomato Farm experiences.
Drive south on Route 35 for about 6 kilometres. Turn left onto Route 31. In less than 3 kilometres watch for the cathedral on the horizon.
Skálholt
Skálholt was one of the main bishopric seats for over 700 years (1056 to 1785), even through the reformation. The current cathedral, completed in 1963, is the tenth church built here since the first in the 12th century.
See the spectacular stained glass windows and impressive altarpiece. Archaeological investigations discovered a sarcophagus in the crypt below the church. It is believed to contain the remains of Páll Jónsson, the Roman Catholic bishop of Iceland from 1195 to 1211. Visit the turf house, with the beautiful door, beside the cathedral.
For a luxurious geothermal stop, just south of Skálholt, Laugarás Lagoon is a newly opened geothermal spa offering a stunning wellness experience right on the Golden Circle. On the banks of the Hvítá River, this two-story facility features thermal pools, a cascading waterfall, saunas, a swim-up bar, and views over the Hvítá River, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Return to Route 35 and continue south toward Selfoss. Depending on time, take a half-hour walk around Kerið, a volcanic crater filled with a lovely lake.
Kerid Crater
The crater was formed approximately 6,500 years ago when a cone volcano erupted and collapsed into its empty magma chamber. It is a popular photo stop to capture the colour contrast between the crater’s red walls and the aquamarine lake in the crater’s centre.
Walk the crater rim or descend to the lake’s edge via steps. Kerið is oval shaped (270 metres by 170 metres) and 55 metres deep from the upper rim. Depending on rainfall, the lake’s water depth ranges between 7 and 14 metres.
It is on private land and there is a fee to visit.
Continue south to the Icelandic Ring Road, Highway #1.
If you are travelling further east, turn left. Selfoss, southern Iceland’s largest town, makes the perfect place to stop and recharge after a great Golden Circle tour. It is also convenient for supplies and services.
If you are returning to Reykjavík completing the full circle, turn right. With time and interest consider visiting the town of Hveragerði, about 45 kilometres from Reykjavík, which sits atop an active geothermal field.
Hveragerði
Steam rises from the ground throughout Hveragerði. The area’s natural heat was used in greenhouses as early as the 1920’s and today its many greenhouses grow flowers, vegetables, and tropical fruits year-round. Hveragerði is home to the world’s northernmost banana plantation and hosts an annual flower festival in August.
The town is convenient for traveller services and amenities including accommodations. We stayed in the local campground.
There are plenty of outdoor activities and local attractions, including the Listasafn Árnesinga (LÁ Art Museum) and Hveragarðurinn, the Hveragerði Geothermal Park. In the centre of town, the compact Geothermal Park includes a visitor centre and educational exhibits. For a small entrance fee, enjoy a guided walk around the hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles and learn about the geological history of the area including innovative uses of geothermal energy. Sample rye bread baked using geothermal heat or cook an egg in the hot stream.
Hike into the Reykjadalur valley. The trailhead parking lot is about 3 kilometres northeast of town. ( A parking fee is applicable.) The 40-minute hike goes through hilly terrain with steaming vents and bubbling springs. The boiling spring water flows down into the valley’s river and mixes with the river’s glacier meltwater creating a warm stream of varying temperatures down its length. Walk along the river, sampling the water temperature to find your perfect bathing spot.
If river bathing is not your thing, or you want to relax after your hike, a new bathhouse experience, Reykjaböð Hot Springs, opens in late Spring/early Summer 2026. Enjoy the warm, mineral-rich waters of the lagoon, the cool plunge pool, and dry-heat saunas, along with quiet relaxation areas. There’s a swim-up bar and onsite bistro. If you want a full spa experience, that is also available.
The last attraction on our Golden Circle road trip is located at the Hellisheiði Power Plant. Take Highway #1 west for 15 kilometres, turn north and travel 1.5 kilometres.
The Geothermal Exhibition is an interactive museum where you learn about geothermal energy production, as well as sustainable energy practices. Enjoy interactive displays, see inside the turbines of the power plant and learn about carbon capture technology. Learn how the power plant produces electricity for the national power grid and hot water for the Reykjavík area.
Return to Reykjavík on Highway #1.
Accommodations on the Golden Circle
Here are the best-rated accommodations for your stay in Iceland Golden Circle.
- Farmhotel Efstidalur (Laugarvatn) — Working farm with horse riding and geothermal hot tub.
- Golden Circle Cabins (Laugarvatn) — Self-catering cabins with terrace and landmark views
- Héradsskólinn Historic Guesthouse (Laugarvatn) — 1920s schoolhouse overlooking Lake Laugarvatn.
- Hotel Geysir (Geysir) — Steps from the geyser with mountain views and restaurant.
- Litli Geysir Hotel (Geysir) — Roadside hotel 200m from the famous Geysir hot spring.
- Hotel Gullfoss (Gullfoss Waterfall) — Highland hotel 3km from Gullfoss Waterfall.
- Hótel Skálholt (Skálholt) — Countryside hotel with hot tub and local seafood dining.
- Hotel Selfoss (Selfoss) — Riverside spa hotel with sauna and fireplace bar.
- Hotel South Coast (Selfoss) — Modern hotel with spa, restaurant and city views.
Find more Iceland Golden Circle accommodations on Booking.com >>
Know Before You Go – Driving the Golden Circle
How long does it take to travel the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle can be completed as a day trip from Reykjavik. The actual driving time is about 4 hours for the 300-km loop. Most visitors spend 6-8 hours to fully enjoy the main attractions of Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. We spent 10.5 hours and stayed in Hveragerði, instead of returning to Reykjavík.
Best Time to Visit the Golden Circle?
The Golden Circle is accessible year-round. The summer (June-August) offers mild weather and midnight sun for extended sightseeing. Winter (November-March) provides opportunities to see the Northern Lights and snow-covered landscapes, but driving conditions require more caution.
Do you need a 4×4 for the Golden Circle?
No, you don’t need a 4×4 for the Golden Circle. The route is on well-maintained, paved roads that are suitable for regular 2WD vehicles year-round. However, in winter, always check weather conditions before departing.
Are there tours of the Golden Circle?
Yes! Organized bus tours are another great way to experience the Golden Circle. This is an excellent option for cruise ship passengers or those who prefer not to drive (especially in the winter months).
These bus tours provide a professional guide and bus transportation to all three main attractions: Thingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss.
Most tours last around 8 hours, with the convenience of complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík.
Is parking free on the Golden Circle?
A parking fee applies at a number of the stops on the Golden Circle and in most cases that is the only “admission” fee payable. The most common payment method is using Parka. We highly recommend downloading the app on your phone before you leave on the road trip to make the payment process really simple. Some parking lots also have a kiosk. You’ll need to know your license plate number.
Parking at Thingvellir National Park is payable at machines in the parking areas or using the online service Checkit.
Explore All of our Iceland Road Trip Guides
Discover our complete series of detailed Iceland Guides to help you plan your perfect 7 to14 day adventure.
Main Article: 7 to 14 Day Iceland Road Trip
Part 1: Reykjavík – Explore the Capital City
Part 2: Golden Circle – Geysers, Waterfalls, and Ancient History (You’re reading this guide now!)
Part 3: Westman Islands – Puffins and Volcanic Wonders
Part 4: South Coast Iceland – Black Beaches, Glaciers and Waterfalls
Part 5: Northern Iceland and the Diamond Circle – Geothermal Wonders and Mighty Waterfalls
Part 6: Akureyri – Capital of the North
Part 7: West Iceland – Mystical Landscapes and Hidden Gems
